Scolecite (CaAl₂Si₃O₁₀·3H₂O) is the calcium end-member of the natrolite-mesolite-scolecite zeolite series. Its name from Greek “skolex” (worm) refers to the way it curls when heated — diagnostic for the species. Beautiful colorless to white acicular fibrous sprays grow on basalt cavity matrix at Pune (India) and Berufjordur (Iceland).
Key Facts
- Mohs hardness 5.
- Monoclinic; acicular and fibrous radiating sprays.
- Curls when heated (worm-like, hence the name).
- Colorless to glassy white; rare pink and salmon varieties.
- Forms continuous series with natrolite (Na) and mesolite (intermediate).
Notable Localities
Pune basalts (Maharashtra, India) and Berufjordur (Iceland) yield iconic radiating specimens. Mt. Saint-Hilaire (Quebec) supplies collector material.
Found at these Localities
- Maharashtra Deccan Traprock Zeolites (马哈拉施特拉德干玄武岩沸石产地)
